There’s nothing quite like a tall glass of cool water to make you say “Ah!” The refreshing liquid is a necessity for the human body to heal and move without pain. However, it can also be an oral health hack for those who struggle with forming better hygiene habits. While there’s no substitute for brushing and flossing, drinking more H20 can help your smile stay sparkling.
Continue reading to learn more about how hydration can help you reach your oral health goals.
What Can Water Do for Your Oral Health?
Water is the most basic liquid on the planet, but it has more going on than meets the eye. Here’s how it can keep your smile looking bright and healthy:
Increases Saliva Production
Adequate hydration is needed for saliva production. While it seems strange, saliva is your mouth’s natural defense against oral bacteria. It helps rinse away food particles and plaque from the mouth, preventing it from building up and causing tooth decay.
Adjusts pH Balance
Drinking water helps support the pH balance in your mouth. This is a measure of acidity, which must be kept in an ideal range to preserve your teeth. When the mouth becomes too acidic due to dehydration or sugary snacks, it can lead to erosion of enamel and an increased risk of cavities.
Prevents Dry Mouth
The dreaded dry mouth is a condition that stems from lack of hydration. It not only causes discomfort but also creates an environment where bacteria and oral infections can more easily spread. Drinking water helps prevent these complications.
Tips For Staying Hydrated
As you can see, water is the great equalizer when it comes to your oral health. So, how can you get more of it each day? Here are some expert tips:
Make Water More Available
To drink more water, it needs to be around you! Invest in a reusable water bottle that you can easily carry with you wherever you go. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, or more if you’re physically active or live in a hot climate. Carry a reusable water bottle with you to ensure easy access to hydration throughout the day.
Limit Sugary Sodas
While many carbonated drinks are marketed as some kind of “thirst quencher” they often cause dehydration, especially sugary ones. This is because sugar causes water to move out of healthy cells to equalize cellular pressure.
Staying hydrated is essential for overall health and good oral hygiene. By drinking an adequate amount of water and following simple tips, you’ll suppress oral health issues, and support your smile. If you need more guidance, talk to your dentist about other ways you can start building good oral health habits.
About the Practice
Do you need a little help with your hygiene? Dr. Philip Batson and Dr. Elizabeth “Liz” Abe are friendly and talented dental experts who love to help patients achieve their “aha moments” when it comes to dental health. Their passion is helping every patient achieve the smile of their dreams with customized treatment plans and high-quality dental care. Call (573) 875-7071 to schedule an appointment at Columbia Healthy Smiles or visit the website to discover other services.